KUCHING: A reasonable fare ceiling or other mechanism should be explored to prevent last-minute airfares involving Sarawak from becoming excessively high, says Transport Minister, Datuk Seri Lee Kim Shin.
He said the ministry had received passenger complaints of last-minute fares exceeding RM1,000 in some instances.
Lee raised the matter during a meeting with AirAsia representatives recently, noting that not all passengers travelling at short notice do so by choice.
“We understand that airfares are influenced by demand, available capacity and the timing of bookings. However, not everyone who buys a ticket at the last minute is travelling by choice.
“Some need to travel urgently because of family matters, medical reasons or other unforeseen circumstances,” he said in a statement today.
Lee suggested that AirAsia explore whether a reasonable fare ceiling or another appropriate mechanism could be considered to prevent last-minute fares from becoming excessively high.
“We understand the commercial considerations involved in airline operations, but we hope there can be a reasonable balance between commercial viability and the needs of passengers,” he said.
He said the ministry would continue engaging airlines on airfares to ensure reasonably accessible air services for Sarawak, particularly during periods of high passenger demand.
